Fragment

Definition

Fragment refers to a small part broken off or separated from something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfræɡmənt/
• Respelling: FRAG-ment (with "FRAG" as in "flag" and "ment" as in "meant")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfræɡmənt/
• Respelling: FRAG-ment (with "FRAG" as in "flag" and "ment" as in "meant")

In both dialects, "fragment" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FRAG." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FRAG-ment."

Etymology

Originates from the Latin "fragmentum", derived from "frangere", which means "to break."

Derivatives

• Fragmented (adjective)
• Fragmentation (noun)
• Fragmentary (adjective)
• Fragmentize (verb)
• Fragmentarily (adverb)

Synonyms

• Piece
• Shard
• Sliver

Antonyms

• Whole
• Totality
• Entirety

Usage

"Fragment" is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. In its literal sense, it refers to physical pieces that have broken off from a larger object. Figuratively, it can describe incomplete parts of something abstract, such as a story, memory, or idea. The verb form is used when describing the action of breaking something into smaller pieces or when something naturally breaks apart.

Related Terms

• Part
• Section
• Splinter
• Chip
• Segment

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Piece or Part of Something: Refers to a small portion that has been broken off or separated from a larger whole, often incomplete.
  • Example: Archaeologists found fragments of pottery at the excavation site.

• An Incomplete Part: Describes something that is not whole or is only a portion of the complete item or idea.
  • Example: The manuscript was only a fragment of the original work.

Verb

• To Divide or Break Apart: Describes the action of something breaking into smaller pieces or causing it to do so.
  • Example: The vase fragmented when it fell off the shelf.

• To Become Incomplete or Disjointed: Used figuratively to describe something becoming less cohesive or whole.
  • Example: The discussion fragmented into separate, unrelated conversations.